Today's set-top boxes, tablet PCs and smartphones are equipped with digital video interfaces such as the high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) and the mobile high-definition link (MHL).

The new R&S VTC video test center can be used to test the functionality of these interfaces and their compliance with the relevant standards. The R&S VTC provides combined realtime protocol testing and audio/ video analysis including difference picture analysis, offering user equipment manufacturers the most flexible test platform on the market. The R&S VTC is an entirely modular platform designed for testing video and audio interfaces that offers a wide variety of functions.

The all-in-one solution provides realtime protocol and media content analysis and can be modified at any time to meet the requirements of specific test environments. It can also be upgraded to comply with new standards, which is what makes it such a flexible solution.

The platform accommodates up to eight test modules. Separate options are available for the high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) and for the mobile high-definition link (MHL) interface that are commonly used in consumer electronics equipment. An analog audio/ video interface module and a modulator module for broadcasting standards are currently being prepared.

In combination with the HDMI options – which are also new – the R&S VTC performs extensive realtime analyses of video and audio parameters as well as info frames. To test sources and sinks, the R&S VTC can perform system protocol tests in line with the latest HDMI compliance test specification 1.4c. For the various interfaces, Rohde & Schwarz provides test software that can be used to automate test routines. The R&S VT-B2361 HDMI RX option also makes it possible to test ultra definition (UD) resolutions, i.e. resolutions up to 4k x 2k as used in high-end screens.

Several options are available for the automatic analysis of media content. These options can be used for MHL and HDMI signals. The R&S VT-K2100 video analysis option measures the timing and level of each video signal component in realtime, making it possible to verify whether color transmission is correct. The R&S VT-K2110 AV inspection and R&S VT-K2111 AV distortion analysis options assist users in performing difference picture analyses.

In addition to the graphical result display, objective measured values such as PSNR, SSIM and MOS are also displayed in realtime. Bit errors in video content, for example, can be identified as well. One option even includes a conclusive audio analysis function. The R&S VTC identifies the key parameters such as audio level, frequency response, phase response, S/N ratio, distortion and crosstalk.

The R&S VTC video test center is easy to use thanks to its 11" touchscreen. It can also be operated remotely via LAN using a PC or tablet. The video test center supports several languages including Chinese, Korean and Japanese. The VXI-11 interface allows the device to be integrated into automated test setups. Customers can modify the R&S VTC for their particular test environments and upgrade it later to comply with new standards and technologies. This gives customers an investment that is ready for the future – guaranteed.